[2921] See B. ii. c. 43. Ajasson remarks, that the electric fluid, forming lightning, escapes from the clouds through causes totally independent of water. Still, Pliny would appear to be right in one sense; for if there were no water, there would be no clouds; and without clouds the electric fluid would probably take some other form than that of lightning.
[2922] He alludes to the mineral waters of Acqs or Dax on the Adour, in the French department of the Ariège. They are still highly esteemed.
[2923] The principal of which are those of Aigues-Chaudes, Aigues-Bonnes, Bagnères-Adores, Cambo, Bagnères, Barèges, Saint-Sauveur, and Cauteret.
[2924] Ajasson remarks that animals in all cases refuse to drink mineral waters.
[2925] He alludes to Neptune, Amphitrite, the Oceanides, Nereides, Tritons, Crenides, Limnades, Potamides, and numerous other minor divinities.
[2926] See B, iii. c. 9.
[2927] See B. iii. c. 7.
[2928] See B. iii. c. 5.
[2929] The mineral waters of Baiæ are still held in high esteem.
[2930] As to the identity of the “nitrum” of Pliny, see c. 46 of this Book.